Vampires, Hearts, & Other Dead Things: A Reflection on Love, Loss, and the Undead
When I stumbled across Vampires, Hearts, & Other Dead Things by Margie Fuston, my heart skipped a beat. As an unrepentant lover of all things vampire-related, the promise of a story set in the enchanting backdrop of New Orleans immediately piqued my interest. I envisioned gothic alleyways lined with flickering lanterns, the haunting echoes of jazz in the air, and, of course, a captivating vampire story that would transport me to the shadowy corners of this storied city. Unfortunately, while I had high hopes, my expectations didn’t quite meet the mark—in the end, I found myself merely okay with the experience.
The plot revolves around Victoria, a high school senior whose life has been overshadowed by her father’s battle with cancer. Victoria and her dad have always shared a love for vampires, debating lore and rewatching classics like Underworld. But when a televised event unveils a so-called vampire who seems to possess real powers, Victoria’s belief leads her on a journey that I hoped would be as thrilling as her fervent, obsessive fantasy. However, as she travels to New Orleans in search of the supernatural, there’s an undeniable darkness lying under her quest—a yearning for something lost.
Accompanying her is Henry, her best friend and longtime crush, who unexpectedly re-enters her life despite their painful history. The dynamics between Victoria and Henry felt like a relatable exploration of teenage love and misunderstanding, yet I often found myself frustrated with her character. While she navigates grief and uncertainty, her selfishness and inability to connect with those around her created a barrier that made it difficult for me to empathize with her. I mean, why does he even bother with her?
Fuston’s writing is vivid, especially when painting the lush visuals of New Orleans’ gothic beauty. From the historical essence of the Ursuline Convent to charming mentions of vampire folklore, I felt truly immersed in the atmosphere. As I absorbed the words, I couldn’t help but reflect on a particularly moving moment when Victoria says: “I am empty, but not broken. Empty things can be filled again.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me, serving as a reminder of the resilience we often discover in ourselves even in our darkest times.
Despite my struggles with Victoria’s character, I still appreciated the way Fuston weaves a narrative that’s rich in emotional depth and the exploration of human fragility amid fantastical themes. For fans of vampire lore, this book contains enough spicy tidbits to keep you intrigued, and while it may not have ignited the flames of my teenage obsession, I can see how it might enchant younger readers who are yearning for their own adventures.
In conclusion, Vampires, Hearts, & Other Dead Things is a fun read for anyone who longs for a taste of supernatural adventure set against the beautiful backdrop of New Orleans. Whether you’re a die-hard vampire aficionado or someone curious about the intersection of love and loss, this book may just provide the escape you need. While it might not have won me over fully, I know many teen readers looking for their next fix of supernatural romance will find a friend in Victoria’s journey.
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